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Verdict

Having shown promise in decent company last season, ROSE OF THE MOON finally got off the mark at Uttoxeter last month when getting the better of previous winner American Spin. David Pipe's grey had plenty in hand that day and should be capable of defying his penalty in this. Ely Brown is seeking a confidence-booster after a shocking effort over fences here last time and Ballycarney is also back over the smaller obstacles, though didn't run badly in a chase at Ascot last month. Opera North won a Carlisle bumper on his racecourse debut but struggled thereafter and may need the run this afternoon so Taikoo, a stayer on the Flat, is more interesting.

Rose Of The Moon (IRE) 4-6fav (10-7) In touch, driven to chase leading pair after 4 out, stayed on under pressure to lead last, ridden out flat, won at Uttoxeter 3m nh nov hdl (4) gs in Nov beating American Spin (11-5) by 2l, 14 ran.

Opera North 14-1 (11-5) In touch in mid-division, ridden over 4f out, headway over 2f out, kept on same pace final furlong, not able to reach leaders, 5th of 13, 2 1/2l behind Find A Key (10-7) at Hexham 2m nhf (6) gd in Apr.